Free computer training offered to unemployed workers

Free computer help is being offered to unemployed people in the Bay area who are looking for work.

The Tampa Bay WorkForce Alliance is providing E-learning courses through Microsoft Elevate America.

People like Anne Marie Ramirez can take one of several training classes and receive an official Microsoft certification at the end.

Ramirez said that she's been looking for a new job since April, and has more than 15 years of advertising experience.

"In today's job market, you really have to have that go-getter attitude -- which I do," said Ramirez.

Career manager Bob Baylies, with the Tampa Bay WorkForce Alliance, said the training can make a huge difference when it comes to landing employment.

"Being able to tell an employer, 'Gee, I got through this course. I have knowledge of these programs,' makes a difference to the employer that this employee is one step better than the next person coming through the door," said Baylies.

The organization is offering interested people a training voucher redeemable for one E-learning course or certification exam.

So far, 1,400 have been given away, but there are still about 800 left.

The deadline to apply and activate the vouchers is August 21.